Many environmental in spiritual influences as well as historical events have made Moku'ula a sacred symbol; and religious center from which Hawaiian spiritual, political and cultural beliefs radiated.

Water or wai in Hawaiian gives life to the food plants, especially taro (kalo), considered the staff of life. Wai implies life and health and is considered sacred and is protected by Mo'o Akua, lizard-like deities.

Areas that contain an abundance of water are considered wealthy lands and prized above all others. Consequently, the ahupua'a (region) of Waine'e (moving water), which contained the ponds of Mokuhinia and the sacred island of Moku'ula, became the chosen home of for Maui's royal families.

While the new Christian churches were being erected upon former heiau, Moku'ula continued along its path as a traditional sanctuary for the King. As the private residence of Kamehameha III and his court, and a piko or umbilicus for the Hawaiian Kingdom, the old kapu held at Moku'ula.

The powers of the Christian mission, foreign businessmen, transients and those of the converted Christian Ali'i had little effect upon the King's sanctuary.